S N NAOMH PADRAIG
School Details
About
Scoil Naomh Pádraig is a suburban primary school set on approximately 1.2 hectares of landscaped grounds in Ballyroan, Rathfarnham. The school combines a “village heart” ethos with modern facilities, offering pupils spacious green areas, a school garden, a well‑stocked library, state‑of‑the‑art playground equipment, a sports pitch, basketball court, digital learning resources, a performance stage and a large hall for assemblies. Dedicated sensory and quiet rooms support children with additional needs, while a caretaker ensures the premises are kept to a high standard. The educational approach is mixed‑infant, providing a seamless transition from preschool to “big school” through a child‑centred curriculum that balances academic rigour with holistic development. The school’s mission, rooted in a Catholic, Mercy‑Order tradition, emphasises kindness, community, diligence and inclusivity. It fosters a collaborative partnership with parents, encouraging participation in a vibrant Parents’ Association and a range of after‑school clubs—including tennis, speech and drama, Irish dancing, basketball and art—delivered by external providers. While maintaining its Catholic ethos, the school welcomes children of all faiths and abilities, ensuring a nurturing environment where every pupil can thrive academically, socially and personally.
History
Scoil Naomh Pádraig (also known as St Patrick’s National School) was founded by the Mercy Order in 1966. The order’s founder, Catherine Mc Auley, believed that educating the young was the most productive work for society, a principle that continues to inform the school’s ethos. Although the Mercy Order no longer serves as trustee, its values remain embedded in the school’s aims and daily practice.